Northern Magic Agility Dogs (NOMAD)

NOMAD is a group of dog agility enthusiasts who have come together to play and build lasting relationships with their dogs and other "dog" people. We are a group of about 60 human members based in northern Vermont who live as far afield as Canada, Northern New York State, New Hampshire and Connecticut. NOMAD stands for Northern Magic Agility Dogs, which is quite fitting, as we have no training facility to call home, and members are often on the road traveling to dog agility trials. NOMAD celebrated its 10th birthday at our 2005 NADAC trial.

The NOMAD bylaws are available here.

A Flyer is available to help spread the word!

Mission

NOMAD’s mission is to promote the canine and human bond and to educate the public by promoting humane treatment and positive training of dogs. We pursue these goals by hosting agility trials and demonstrations, as well as providing seminars, practices, matches, and other dog-related activities for our members. Best of all, we are a group of people who share a love of our dogs and the sport of agility. We welcome and embrace all dogs, regardless of background or breeding.

Membership

To become a member of NOMAD, you and your dog must have completed 12 weeks of agility classes or have experience equivalent to 12 classes. Your dog must be familiar with all of the obstacles and know how to safely use the equipment.

Go to our membership page for more information.

Seminars, Practices, and Classes

Seminars, winter practices, and classes are held in horse barns and occasionally in heated local training centers. NOMAD hosts two or three seminars a year for its members with nationally and internationally ranked competitors from around the US. Each seminar offers sessions ranging from pre-novice to masters levels. When there is enough interest, NOMAD also sponsors puppy/young dog seminars for members with new dogs.

NOMAD puts on popular winter classes taught by members. The topics depend on what the instructor would like to teach as well as what topics members have requested.

Go to our Classes and Practices page for more information.

Trials and Demos

Currently NOMAD hosts two trials, a USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association) trial in June and a NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council) in August. These trials take place in Stowe in an outdoor field and would not be possible without the teamwork of all club members.

NOMAD members enjoy putting on a few demos each year. The demos at the Champlain Valley Fair are especially popular and reach a large audience. We also give demos at local shelters and fundraisers. Demos are an excellent way to play with your dog in a trial atmosphere with distractions and encouragement to perform at your best.

Newsletters

NOMAD has a monthly newsletter containing a wealth of information. Please visit our Newsletters page.